My Gastric Bypass Journey- A personal weight loss story- Pre-requisites

When you begin your journey you will find that you have multiple things to do both for your physician and your insurance. These “hoops to jump through” seem excessive when you have been overweight for your whole life and you finally get to the point that you are considering this life changing drastic measure. In hindsight I believe that if I hadn’t had these prerequisites I would not be as successful as I have been. Remember, 20 years ago when there was no research or experience on what works there were many more side effects and failures overall and or long term. The information here is from MY surgeon and MY insurance.

First, call your insurance company and confirm you have coverage for Bariatric Surgery. Ask what their prerequisites are and confirm you meet the criteria. Research a surgeon in your insurance network. Confirm with your primary physician that you meet the criteria for the surgery, is your BMI over 40 or do you have co-morbidities. Then attend an informational seminar at your surgeons. (Not necessarily in order)

• Informational Seminar- Roger Williams Hospital in Providence RI has online seminars as well as in person, I preferred to meet my Surgeon
• Meet with your chosen surgeon
• Upper Endoscopy (EGD) – your primary can order this
• Psychiatry consultation Tell them you need an evaluation for weight loss surgery
• Dietary Consultation- my insurance required 6 months of nutritional counseling, they took 3 in a row and the previous years of work with my Primary.
• Note from your Medical Doctor Medical clearance letter from your Primary Care Doctor- probably the first thing you should do
• Sleep apnea study (depending on your history)
• Support group 2 visits
• Blood testing/ Labs- surgeon will give you the paperwork

Preop diet

Following the rules for your surgery and following the meal plans, staying in contact with your support groups and taking your vitamins will help you to be successful.